The Adriatic Coast and a super Relief Society Activity

We drove to Podgorica the scenic route (meaning we drove first to Split, Croatia spent the night and then traveled on to Podgorica. We had not been down the Croatian coast - and we had wanted to travel that way. The drive along the coastline was beautiful. There are many island all along the Croatian coast and I imagine they help temper the sea and so the waves that lapped the shore were small and gentle. The sky was bright and cloudless!

We had a full week in Podgorica - assisting the young elders and sister with non-functioning phone cards, church tours and visits with congregation members. We also did a few housekeeping tasks; such setting up a printer and paying a parking ticket (it happens - lol). 

One of the best parts of the week was on Saturday, when we had a Relief Society activity at the seaside town of Bar. Relief Society is the world-wide women's organization of the church. Relief Society's goal is to bring the love and relief of Jesus Christ to others. As members of Relief Society we learn, serve and support - each other, our congregation and the communities where we live. 

Members of our congregation are spread out in geographic footprint of over an hours drive by car. The church building, where we hold Sunday services, is in Podgorica, but we also have members who live out at the coast, in Tivat and Budva. 

This day, the Relief Society members and friends, who live in the Podgorica, took the hour train ride to Bar. There we met up with Sister Nikitina, who took a 45 minute bus-ride down the coast from Budva. 

We walked together and visited. We each shared a photo of something that was important to us or that made us happy. 

Sisters Crittenden and Sundell shared a spiritual thought. 

We threw rocks, built a cairn and just enjoyed the sea. 

We shared a meal and some of us ran to catch the train - LOL. It was a grand day! (Though I do have to say, it's hard work, having such fun!)

On Sunday we met together for worship services and lessons.Then after the meetings we shared a meal - socializing and fellowshipping. 

On Sunday, we had members and friends who were from Montenegro, Sierra Leone, Russia, Turkey and America. The singing, prayers and lessons were in several different languages - yet we were united in our striving to follow Jesus Christ. I am loving that the world has become much smaller and more personal, as I have been serving this mission.